Tributes paid after two men killed in mountain falls

Two men have died in separate falls amid strong winds on a mountain range in Northern Ireland. The walkers were killed within an hour of each other on the Mourne Mountains on Sunday. The first fatal incident happened on the Wee Binnian hill shortly before 12pm. The second man fell to his death on the Slieve Commedagh mountain just before 1pm. Mourne Mountain Rescue team release statement on tragic day which saw two walkers die after falls Another man was injured in a third falling incident, in an area known as the Saddle, around 2.30pm. He sustained a broken ankle. The Mourne Mountain Rescue Team supported by police and other emergency services were involved in the two recovery and one rescue operations. The mountains are classified as an area of outstanding natural beauty and are popular with hill walkers. Police said there were no suspicious circumstances in the deaths. The Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Air Support unit described the recovery and rescue operations as “tough and challenging”. A tweet said: “In strong winds we managed to airlift one male out but sadly the two others had died. Our thoughts are with their loved ones.” PSNI deputy chief constable Stephen Martin tweeted: “Sincere sympathy to the families of the two men who died. Also a heartfelt thanks to my colleagues @PSNIAirSupport, @PSNINMDown & the other emergency services who responded to these tragic events. We are very proud of you & truly appreciate what you do in the service of others.”… [Read full story]